I was thinking of getting back into rideing and have found a 2002 HD 1200. I like the look and the ride However the bike is a REBUILT BIKE (branded title). With only 5500 miles on the bike I was wondering if the bike is worth getting or would you stay away from a branded title bike? I have never had a HD always rode yamaha's so the change will be good but sorta concerned about the whole title thing. Anyone willing to give me some input is greatly helpfull on this subject. I am trading a vehicle for the bike so I will have about $3000 in the bike
Thank you in advance

I have my opinion on the branded title so really wanting yours

 

It really all depends on what happened to it.

 

The guy says the front end was wrecked and he replaced the forks wheel and handle bars and I know it has a new speedo on it of course the fender and I honestly believe the tank is new.

 

assuming it was done correctly, and that is indeed all that happened to it......
doesn't sound like a bad deal

 

If it rides good and you like it, Go for it!

The only downside is resale value because of the title. But right now that should be a + for you

Good luck! Ride Hard and have fun!

 

+1

Resale value will be for **** forever more. If you don't care about such things and the frame is straight and the bike is in overall workable condition, it could be a great money-saving find.

 

I may be the minority here, yet here is my opinion.

What was the cost of a 2002 1200 Sportster? Maybe $7000.?
Standard depreciation per year $500 times six years = 3500.
Net value of a NO STORIES bike = $4000 (Which will have a resale value).

Also note that I did not take the time to Blue Book the value of this bike...... is it repainted or still Harleyoriginal paint and I am unsure what model it is.
I have always read that modificationadd no value to the bike, accessories...only you can decide if any accessories have value to you.

Net value OF THIS bike = $3000

So for a damaged tilte you are saving $1000. based on above senario.

Also, it is not known if the frame or steering head bearings still need repair? Is the rear swing arm still straight? Is it collision or flood damage? Are both rims really straight?

To gain a salvage title the damage had to be 80% or more of the value of the bike at the time if I am not mistaken. What short cuts were taken to get the bike on the road for less than the estimated damage report? So there are be receipts for these parts right? The estimate is available right?

Yes, if it drives well and if you are mechanically sharp you could take a chance. Yet $1000 in Harley parts and repairs came be spent pretty quick. I also agree that resale for you will be zero...you will be forced to keep this bike or trade it like the deal you are doing now. Since you are trading a automobile, is a winter vehicle a concern for you and yours? Personally, I would never buy it as a totaled bike/ salvage bike can be a monetray loser.

So,

1) I would confirm the Blue Book value first to see what value can be given to the salvage title before I made the decision.

2) I wouldspin the wheels and look for run out.

3) Verify the rear wheel alignment to the counter shaft sprocket.

4) Remove the gas tank and look for frame steering head damage and additionally check for steering stem, stem bearings and fork damage.

5) Even, with so little mileage, I would give the engine a compression and leak down test as due diligence since the state of the engine in the accident is unknown (under water, over rev, oil starvation for example).

6) Do our other co-membersknow of anotherno stories bike for $3000?

In closing, a salavaged bike scares me.

This was my opinion and I hope it is of some use to you in your decision.

Good hunting!

 

Kenny94945 - dude good luck finding a real nice 1200 for $3000,I've sold cars to,but we are talking real person prices not trade in valueIMO if the bike isfixed right that would be a nice buy,at $3K for any decent riding & runningHarley would seem fair to me.

 

If it has a new speedo, how do you know how many ACTUAL miles it has?

I would check the bike out and consider offering 2k - that would be enough discount to make up for it's dubious past.

 

I can say this the title shows 5300 miles and the speedo shows 5500 it was titled to the guy in 11/07 he bought wrecked to fix and sale. I sell cars 2 days a week and I am a ASE Certified mechanic so as far as the engine goes I am not really scared of that. I also understand the resale value is going to be bad. I was just thinking a sportster 1200 for 3K even with the branded title surely it isn't that bad of a deal. Maybe I am wrong... I guess I will think about it but please keep commenting so I know everyone elses thoughts